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Shop, watch video walkarounds and compare prices on New Ford Explorer listings. See Kelley Blue Book pricing to get the best deal. Search from 22855 New Ford Explorer cars for sale, including a  2025 Ford Explorer Platinum, a  2025 Ford Explorer ST, and a  2025 Ford Explorer ST-Line ranging in price from $29,996 to $77,840.

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Search from 22,855 Ford Explorer for sale, including a New 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum, a New 2025 Ford Explorer Platinum w/ Ultimate Package, and a New 2025 Ford Explorer ST ranging in price from $29,996 to $77,840.

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Frankie Rogers is a senior editor for Kelley Blue Book and focuses on the production of content. She edits and formats content, creates monthly deals lists, is a media asset curator, and photographs cars for various articles and inclusion in KBB’s image library. Her 16+ years at Kelley Blue Book have included roles as a Blue Book copy editor, press vehicle wrangler, and VIN analyst. In her spare time, she can be found tinkering with her 1970 Chevrolet Camaro, trying out new recipes in her cast iron pans, and spoiling her two cats, Grayson and Thaddeus.

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Eric Brandt, Author at Kelley Blue Book

Matt Degen is an author specializing in reviewing cars with the goal of helping you find the best one for your needs. Prior to joining Kelley Blue Book in 2012, he was a writer and editor for over a decade at The Orange County Register newspaper. There he covered automobiles, music and food -- all things Matt is passionate about. He holds degrees in Communications and Culinary Arts. When not evaluating vehicles, he is cooking on his YouTube channel.

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Russ Heaps has produced automotive content for newspapers, magazines, and websites since 1987. Knight-Ridder recognized his contributions in founding and supplying content for the stand-alone auto section in the Boca Raton News with a Knight-Ridder Excellence award nomination in 1990. He began contributing advice and other automotive-related content to Cox Automotive as a contractor in 2010. Cox Automotive brought Russ on board as Senior Editor, Advice for Kelley Blue Book in 2022. Previously, he contributed financial and automotive content for Bankrate.com. He was also managing editor for Auto World and NOPI Street Performance Compact magazines for four years. His work has appeared in the Washington Times, the Miami Herald, the Palm Beach Post, and a host of other newspapers on a syndicated basis. 
Russ also has a deep background in travel as the supervising producer for the syndicated television series Discover America where he also wrote scripts and field-produced episodes. Additionally, he authored travel stories for AAA of the Carolinas Magazine.
He graduated Wittenberg University with a degree in Political Science. His passions are friends, cars, bourbon, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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2026Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

2026Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Archives - Kelley Blue Book

hybrid

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$43,500 - $48,499

$43,500 - $48,499 Archives - Kelley Blue Book

$48,500 - $53,499

$48,500 - $53,499 Archives - Kelley Blue Book

$53,500 - $63,499

$53,500 - $63,499 Archives - Kelley Blue Book

2-Line Blurb

140-Character Blurb

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid boasts ample family-friendly features and vast interior space while returning up to 36 mpg.

Cons

<ul>
<li>Max powertrain is pricey</li>
</ul>

Power, Ride, and Handling

Driving Impressions

The 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is powered by a 245-hp hybrid 4-cylinder engine matched with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard in all but the XLE trim, where front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.
This base hybrid powertrain motivates the LE, XLE, Limited, and Nightshade models. Thanks to the low-end thrust provided by the electric motor, the Grand Highlander Hybrid feels about as quick as the non-hybrid, despite having less horsepower. We found the Grand Highlander Hybrid smooth and steady on the highway and easy around town, although its plus-size proportions can make parking lots feel a bit tighter.
While most of our editors would go with the regular hybrid powertrain for better efficiency, buyers planning to haul full loads of people, gear, or a trailer might want to consider the more muscular 362-hp Hybrid Max drivetrain. It’s optional in the Limited trim and standard in the Platinum model. This potent powertrain is more suitable if you’ll actually be using all of those seats regularly. We like that the turbocharged Hybrid Max setup uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, which contributes to a more spirited driving feel than the frugal CVT.
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The Grand Highlander Hybrid makes a strong case for itself here. The entry-level hybrid system achieves 36 combined mpg (37 city, 34 highway) with front-wheel drive or 34 combined mpg (36 city, 32 highway) with all-wheel drive.
The powerful Hybrid Max powertrain — which is standard in the top Platinum trim, optional in the Limited, and comes with all-wheel drive — runs to 27 combined mpg (26 city, 27 highway).
For comparison, those figures are in the same ballpark as the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. The new-for-2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid gets 34 combined mpg.

Classy Exterior

Exterior

We’re pleased that the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid has its own unique aesthetic, distinct from the regular Highlander. Its boxiness outside is what gives it such a huge interior, and its tasteful design gives it an upmarket feel, especially in the Platinum trim. The Nightshade trim with black wheels and trim pieces adds some nice visual variety to the lineup.

FAQs

Our Favorite Features and Tech

Favorite Features

Two efficient powertrains 
The Grand Highlander Hybrid’s base hybrid powertrain returns up to 36 combined mpg. The stronger Hybrid Max powertrain is still pretty efficient, netting 27 combined mpg while generating 362 hp. Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/grand-highlander/">non-hybrid Grand Highlander</a> can only get up to 24 mpg combined.
Up to 8 seats 
Some SUVs in this class only have two seats in the third row, but the Grand Highlander Hybrid has three. That means it has a total of eight seats with the second-row bench seat or seven seats with captain’s chairs.
Tons of cargo space 
The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid has one of the roomiest cargo holds in its class. Behind the third row is 20.6 cubic feet of room, and behind the second row is 57.9 cubic feet. Fold down all of the back seats, and you get a cavernous 97.5 cubic-foot cargo bay.
12.3-inch display 
The standard infotainment system in the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid has a sizeable 12.3-inch display and handy connectivity features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. An available JBL 11-speaker audio system brings your tunes to life.
7 USB-C ports 
You won’t hear any complaints about dying devices from the passengers in this family SUV. Seven USB-C ports throughout the expansive cabin ensure topped-off phones and tablets for painless road trips.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 
The standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system in the Grand Highlander Hybrid bundles safety features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and Proactive Driving Assist, which can help with braking and steering in city and highway driving.

Huge Interior

Interior

The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is one of the roomiest family SUVs in its class, up there with the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/traverse/">Chevy Traverse</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/volkswagen/atlas/">Volkswagen Atlas</a> (neither of which has a hybrid option). If you’re looking for a real minivan alternative with a third row of seats that’s actually comfortable, this is one of your best options.
For starters, it seats up to eight. A pair of second-row captain’s chairs is standard in all but the LE trim, resulting in a maximum occupant count of seven. However, the XLE and Limited offer an optional 3-person bench, which is standard in the LE. The Nightshade, Max Limited, and Max Platinum are 7-seaters exclusively.
Maximum legroom in the second row is 39.5 inches, almost an inch better than the regular <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/highlander/">Highlander</a>. That’s about average compared to most 3-row rivals, but the third row has generous legroom of 33.5 inches. That’s a significant 5.5 more inches than the third row of the non-Grand Toyota Highlander and its <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/highlander-hybrid/">hybrid counterpart</a>.
The Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid boasts 20.6 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the third row (pretty good), 57.9 cubic feet behind the second row (really good), and 97.5 cubic feet behind the first row (nearly class-leading). We’ve made real Costco runs in the Grand Highlander Hybrid with kids in tow, and it got the job done comfortably and efficiently.
We’re so enamored with the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid’s back seats and cargo area that we almost forgot to mention what the interior is like for the front-seat occupants. This Toyota has a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless smartphone connectivity, three drinks holders (including one for a large bottle), and wireless charging. Cupholders, USB-C ports, and storage cubbies are generously placed throughout this practical interior, which we love to see in a family hauler.

Is the YMM a Good Vehicle?

Is the YMM Reliable?

KBB Editors' Overview

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid is all about frugal practicality. For starters, it’s one of the roomiest SUVs in its class, with adult-friendly 3-row seating and cargo space that’s among the best in its class. Add a hybrid powertrain that returns up to 36 combined mpg, and you’re getting hybrid efficiency with family-friendly utility and no compromise. The available 362-horsepower Hybrid Max powertrain adds some muscle while still returning a respectable 27 mpg. Of course, it also comes with Toyota’s famous reliability and resale value, making the Grand Highlander Hybrid a smart and sensible choice in family SUVs.
We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hybrid/best-hybrid-suvs/">hybrid SUVs</a>, including the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid.

Optional Equipment

Pricing - Dynamic

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid starts at $46,205 for the base LE trim, and models with the Hybrid Max powertrain begin at $56,685. All-wheel drive is standard on all but the XLE trim, where it’s a $1,600 option.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Hybrid LE</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$46,205</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$47,375</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Hybrid Limited</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$53,705</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Hybrid Nightshade</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$54,685</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Limited</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$56,685</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Hybrid Max Platinum</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$60,770</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Pricing - Static

Some hybrid 3-row SUVs like the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/kia/sorento-hybrid/">Kia Sorento Hybrid</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/santa-fe-hybrid/">Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid</a> are a little more affordable than the Grand Highlander Hybrid, but they’re also smaller. There’s a <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/palisade-hybrid/">Hyundai Palisade Hybrid</a> on the way for the 2026 model year, and we expect it to be priced similarly to this Toyota. If you want more space and the same fuel economy at a lower price, the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/sienna/">Toyota Sienna</a> hybrid minivan is worth a look.
Before buying a Grand Highlander Hybrid, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid resale value is above average for the segment. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

Pros

<ul>
<li>Giant interior</li>
<li>Great fuel economy</li>
<li>Powerful Hybrid Max option</li>
</ul>

Quick New

Safety

Standard Equipment

Trims

Engine and Transmission

Under the Hood

The 2026 Grand Highlander Hybrid offers a choice of two drivetrains. The LE, XLE, Limited, and Nightshade’s setup consists of a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine augmented by an electric motor to generate 245 hp. The non-hybrid has 265 hp, but a little sacrifice for lower emissions isn’t so bad.
The most potent turbocharged Hybrid Max configuration is available in the Limited trim and standard in the top Platinum trim. It develops 362 hp from an electric motor and a turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine. Unusually, Toyota also quotes a torque figure for this drivetrain, a meaty 400 lb-ft.
Every other trim but the XLE has all-wheel drive as standard, and each uses a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The Max also has all-wheel drive as standard, along with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Max drivetrain has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, while the more modest version can still handle 3,500 pounds.
<h3>3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
Toyota’s new-vehicle warranty conforms to the class norms of three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first, with powertrains covered for five years or 60,000 miles. Hybrid batteries have a 10-year or 150,000-mile warranty, whereas the typical arrangement is eight years or 100,000 miles. Toyota also includes complimentary scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance over the first two years or 25,000 miles.
<h3>Safety</h3>
In testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IIHS</a>), the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid received an “Acceptable” rating in the Small Overlap Front and Headlights categories and the top “Good” rating in every other category. Those are pretty good scores, but not good enough to earn a Top Safety Pick designation. The Grand Highlander Hybrid earns the top 5-Star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NHTSA</a>).

What's New for 2026

What's new for 2026

Following the introduction of the Nightshade Edition for 2025, there are no notable changes to the Grand Highlander Hybrid for 2026.

Featured Article

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2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

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$73,500 &amp; up

$73,500 &amp; up Archives - Kelley Blue Book

If the large luxury sedan segment was a mountain, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class would be at the summit.

Power, Ride and Handling

There’s nothing lacking in the S 500. It melds 442 horsepower with superb refinement. <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/">Mercedes-Benz</a> says this model can accelerate from standstill to 60 mph in a brisk 4.5 seconds. We don’t dispute it. To compare, the BMW 740i has 375 hp and hits 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
However, the authoritative V8 thrust of the 496-hp S 580 seems perfectly right in a large luxury sedan. It will shave 0.2 of a second from the S 500’s sprint time.
We’ve also driven the S 580e plug-in hybrid, which feels so beautifully effortless. We could never tell when its V6 was sliding into or out of operation without looking at the rev counter. The electric motor is perfectly capable of decent freeway speeds and making decisive passing moves without any help from the gasoline side.
Life behind the wheel of a 2026 S-Class is rather wonderful. As that smell of fine leather or the cabin fragrance system wafts gently into your nostrils, the massaging seat kneads your back, your elbows rest on padded areas of yet more leather, and the crystal-clear stereo system plays your favorite tracks, the rest of the world falls into insignificance.
Threading through city streets or dashing down a highway, there’s the same comfort and pretty much the same suppressed level of noise. An air suspension is standard, enhancing comfort, yet also making the car feel more agile than its size suggests. A comprehensive set of driver assistance features is also included.
In our ideal new S-Class, we would also choose the rear-wheel steering system for greater maneuverability. And the E-Active Body Control hydro-pneumatic suspension that reads the road ahead, adjusts the ride quality accordingly, and helps keep the car astonishingly flat through corners.
We review the higher-powered 2026 <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/mercedes-amg-s-class/">Mercedes-AMG S-Class</a> separately. Likewise, the ultra-luxurious <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/mercedes-maybach-s-class/">Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.</a>
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The S 500 4Matic achieves 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Compare that with the BMW 740i xDrive, which manages 27 mpg combined.
People who can afford a new S-Class aren’t especially worried about fuel bills, but if anyone wanted to reduce their carbon footprint a little, the S 580e plug-in hybrid can travel for an impressive 56 miles on battery power alone. After that, it achieves 23 mpg combined. With a computer-controlled combination of electric and gasoline operation, it feels almost odd to be driving an S-Class and hardly see the fuel gauge move even after a couple of long drives. The comparable BMW 750e xDrive runs for 35 miles in electric mode.
All these engines require premium gasoline.

Elegant Exterior

As brave and bold as something like the BMW 7 Series might be, with its avant-garde exterior styling, some buyers are going to be more conservative in their tastes. Over its many generations, the S-Class has always occupied the top spot, and part of the reason why is its design. It manages to convey presence, authority, prestige, and elegance — all at the same time.
This year’s expanded plethora of Manufaktur paint choices should please even the pickiest customer.

Front seats 
The front seats have rapid heating or cooling, as well as multiple massaging programs — some of which go on for nearly 20 minutes. Even better news, these aren’t optional. They’re standard in every new S-Class luxury sedan.
Augmented reality 
The standard navigation system in the 2026 S-Class can show images of what’s directly ahead, and highlight things like direction signs and street numbers. This is done on the infotainment screen, as well as the optional head-up display.
Hey, Mercedes 
Wake up the onboard digital assistant with these two words, then give a command like “raise the cabin’s temperature by two degrees” or “turn down the volume.” This is another standard feature of the 2026 S-Class.
Powered rear shades 
The rear window and rear passenger windows at each side have shades that go up and down with the touch of a button — also standard.
Burmester 15-speaker/710-watt surround-sound system 
This standard setup is superb — crisp, detailed, and powerful. Or there’s always the optional 30-speaker/1,750-watt 4D upgrade for an even more immersive listening experience.
Soft-closing doors 
Yes, they’re common at this lofty luxury level, but every time we get in the S-Class and the doors shut smoothly behind us, we get a little thrill. They&#8217;re standard across the lineup.
&nbsp;

Interior Sanctum

Heaven on four wheels. The feel of the leather, the comfort of the seats, the heft of the switchgear, the many tech features, the cabin air ionization and fragrance, the space, the silence. These all collude to create a sumptuous and secure bubble, where occupants can dictate how much of the outside world they want to allow in.
Mercedes-Benz brings only its long-wheelbase S-Class models into the United States, so there’s plenty of legroom for tall passengers sitting in the back. Audi and BMW do the same thing. Every S-Class has the option of two executive rear seats with power-adjustable/heated/massaging seats and heated armrests. We’re mentioning the vast array of Manufaktur interior decor choices again, because there are just so many.
At 12.9 cubic feet, the trunk isn’t that big (similar to a Toyota Corolla’s). Perhaps S-Class owners have their Louis Vuitton luggage transported in a separate vehicle. The S 580e plug-in hybrid’s trunk is even smaller — 8.1 cubic feet — we struggled to get a large suitcase in there.

There can only be one supreme ruler of the flagship sedan realm. It’s this, the S-Class. And it’s occupied that throne for many years and generations. Just like Steven Spielberg really, really knows how to make a film involving sharks, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/">Mercedes-Benz</a> is a master of the large luxury car.
Part of that mastery is the painstaking attention to the smallest details. Some of it comes from innovations in technology, especially on the safety front, or often applying them to enhance comfort. Then there’s the ability to power (quietly) along an autobahn with stability and reassurance. There isn’t only one reason why the S-Class rules, and that’s precisely why the S-Class rules.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/cars/best-luxury-full-size-cars/">luxury full-size sedans</a>, including the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a starting sticker price of $120,650, with the range-topping S 580 4Matic kicking off at $131,850.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">S 500 4Matic</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$120,650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">S 580e 4Matic</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$131,550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">S 580 4Matic</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$131,850</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

The S 580 4Matic is the most popular variant and one we would recommend for its considerable standard inventory and engine power.
Two main S-Class rivals are the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/bmw/7-series/">BMW 7 Series</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/porsche/panamera/">Porsche Panamera</a>, both with prices beginning below their Mercedes-Benz equivalent. We’re expecting a new-for-2026 <a href="https://www.kbb.com/audi/a8/">Audi A8</a>, which should also begin lower than the S-Class. Same story with the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/lexus/ls/">Lexus LS</a>. The <a href="https://www.kbb.com/genesis/g90/">Genesis G90</a> is also less expensive than the S-Class, yet absolutely worth considering.
Before buying a new S-Class large luxury sedan, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Resale values should be about average for the class. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one, if that matters to an S-Class buyer.

<ul>
<li>Sumptuous interior</li>
<li>Excellent tech</li>
<li>Scores high on the waft-o-meter</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>Exclusive trim</li>
<li>Executive Rear Seat package tweaks</li>
<li>Edition 580 package</li>
</ul>

Before we get into the actual engines, a brief word about the mild hybrid system used in the S 500 and S 580 drivetrains. An electric motor enables a smooth action to the fuel-saving engine stop/restart function, as well as providing brief boosts of 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
An electrical compressor is part of the setup. It’s like a supercharger, working in tandem with the turbocharger(s). And when the optional E-Active Body Control hydro-pneumatic suspension is on board, the mild hybrid system also powers this. It’s typical of Mercedes-Benz to corral technology in the pursuit of comfort and refinement.
The S 500’s combustion side is a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder unit. Output is a perfectly fine 442 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque.
The S 580 drivetrain employs twin turbochargers bolted to a 4.0-liter V8 to make 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The S 580e is a plug-in hybrid, pairing the 3.0-liter turbo V6/mild hybrid system with an electric motor to create a total of 510 hp.
Every new S-Class has an all-wheel drive (AWD) system (known as 4Matic on Planet Mercedes) and a 9-speed automatic transmission.
<h3>4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
The new-car and powertrain warranty on a 2025 S-Class lasts four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Roadside assistance is included. This is the usual arrangement in the luxury sector. Plug-in hybrid batteries are covered for six years or 60,000 miles in some states and 10 years or 150,000 miles in others.
<h3>Safety Ratings</h3>
The S-Class hasn’t been crash-tested by any independent agencies. That’s a common thing for such high-end vehicles, but it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. Mercedes-Benz packs its flagship sedan with an array of comprehensive and often innovative standard safety features, such as the special windshield wiper system that doesn’t mess up vision with indiscriminate splashing all over the glass.

What's new for

There’s been a big equipment shake-up for the 2026 S-Class. A new Exclusive trim comes in below the Pinnacle trim, bringing a heated steering wheel, heated armrests, ventilated/power-adjustable rear seats with memory settings, plus several other convenience features.
All 2026 S-Class variants are eligible for the Executive Rear Seat package, which now heightens (or deepens) the luxury for two occupants, adding folding tables and a temperature-controlled cup holder.
The new Edition 580 package is exclusive to the S 580 4Matic (not the hybrid version) and bundles various features such as a choice of Manufaktur paint finishes, plus posher-than-usual mats and headrests.
The Manufaktur personalization program has gone into overdrive, with more than 50 new paint finishes, along with at least 20 new upholstery choices.

2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

2026Toyota Grand Highlander

2026Toyota Grand Highlander Archives - Kelley Blue Book

$38,500 - $43,499

$38,500 - $43,499 Archives - Kelley Blue Book

The massive 3-row interior of the Toyota Grand Highlander makes it one of the most practical family vehicles among midsize SUVs.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is powered by a 265-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine matched with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
This is a perfectly nice powertrain for everyday use. There’s some coarse noise from the engine that’s characteristic of SUVs this size with turbo 4-cylinder engines, but it’s smooth and hushed once you get up to highway speeds. It’s more than enough power for most applications, but nothing so powerful it demands much attention. Light steering inputs and confident braking make for a pleasant driving experience.
The optional all-wheel drive is plenty sure-footed in cold weather, and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/">Toyota</a> doesn’t even try to pretend it’s made for rock crawling, which is refreshing amidst the off-road trend spreading through this class.
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The Toyota Grand Highlander returns up to 21 city/28 highway/24 combined mpg with front-wheel drive. Upgrading to all-wheel drive brings that rating down to 23 combined mpg on the lower trims and 22 combined mpg on the Limited and Platinum trims because of the 20-inch wheels. Still, these are decent efficiency ratings for such a big SUV.
For better fuel economy in the same family-friendly package, consider the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/grand-highlander-hybrid/2026/">Grand Highlander Hybrid</a>, which returns up to 36 mpg in mixed driving.

Humble Exterior

Toyota has a reputation for putting function over form, and that’s evident in the Grand Highlander’s design. It’s a nice-looking vehicle as long as you prefer subtlety over flash. Upper trims get stylish 20-inch wheels, and Toyota’s multi-layered &#8220;Pearl&#8221; paint options of Ruby Flare and Wind Chill add a more premium look to the body.

Infotainment system 
Every Grand Highlander trim level gets the same 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. We found it fairly intuitive to operate manually or with voice commands by saying “Hey, Toyota” to get the system’s attention. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
Smart Key 
This lets you use your smartphone as a key. Conveniently, you can share it with another smartphone remotely. Sadly, it requires a subscription after a trial period.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 
This standard safety tech suite bundles must-have safety and driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, road sign assist, and automatic high beams.
360-degree camera system 
Provided only on the Platinum trim, this feature gives the driver a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings. We found it particularly useful in negotiating tight parking garages.
Digital rearview mirror 
Found only on the Platinum model, this shows you a clear view of what’s behind the car even if the rear window is blocked with a dorm room’s worth of stuff.
Traffic Jam Assist 
Also part of the Platinum trim, this feature can take care of the steering, throttle, and brakes at speeds up to 25 mph, under certain conditions. It’s a fatigue-saver in traffic.

Vast Interior

We’ll say at the outset that the Toyota Grand Highlander is a midsize 3-row SUV for families who will actually use the third row every day. It&#8217;s up there with the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/traverse/">Chevy Traverse</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/volkswagen/atlas/">Volkswagen Atlas</a> as one of the roomiest in its class, with adult-friendly third-row seating and decent cargo space behind the third row. Precious few players in this class can make these claims.
Anything over 30 inches is pretty good for third-row legroom in a midsize SUV, and the Grand Highlander offers 33.5 inches for stretching out in the way back. As for cargo space, you get 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and a Costco-ready 97.5 cubic feet behind the first row.
OK, so it’s huge inside, but how’s the interior quality? The inside of the Grand Highlander has a just-right balance of quality and toddler-resistant durability to make it both comfortable and suitable for family use. Also, cupholders, USB-C ports, and storage cubbies are generously placed throughout this practical interior, which we love to see in a family hauler.
One of our editors has five children and has tested the Grand Highlander as a real-world daily driver for his family. While it’s still no minivan, he was impressed by how thoughtfully designed this interior is for real families, not just the ones in the commercials. In addition to the space, installing car seats is relatively easy, and ingress and egress to and from the third row don’t require much contortion by the passengers.
On the tech front, a 12.3-inch infotainment display comes standard on every Grand Highlander, as do wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims get more advanced tech features and premium appointments, like a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a head-up display, a panoramic moonroof, and JBL audio.

Not all midsize <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-3-row-suvs/">3-row SUVs</a> are created equal. Some families buy them thinking they’re just as good as minivans, but, in some cases, the unfortunate third-row passengers beg to differ. The Toyota Grand Highlander is one option that really is almost as good as a minivan. It has one of the roomiest interiors in its class with adult-friendly third-row seating and cargo space you can actually use behind those rearmost seats. In addition to its roominess, the Grand Highlander has modern and user-friendly safety and infotainment tech features. Add in strong resale value and Toyota reliability, and the Grand Highlander is one of the most sensible and practical family SUVs we’ve tested.
We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-mid-size-suvs/">midsize SUVs</a>, including the Toyota Grand Highlander.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander starts at $42,855 for the base LE trim. All-wheel drive costs an extra $1,600 on most trims, but it’s standard on the top Platinum trim, which starts at $56,040.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander LE</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$42,855</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander XLE</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$45,625</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Limited</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$50,355</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Platinum</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$56,040</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Pricing for the Toyota Grand Highlander is slightly higher than that of the segment average, but it’s also one of the biggest and roomiest midsize SUVs available. You pay a little extra for that extra space and for Toyota’s rock-solid reputation for long-term reliability.
Before buying a Grand Highlander, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Toyota Grand Highlander resale value is above average for the segment. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

<ul>
<li>Huge interior</li>
<li>Great resale value</li>
<li>Pleasant ride quality</li>
</ul>

Power for the non-hybrid variant of the Toyota Highlander comes from a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, rated at 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Output is routed to the front or all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional on all but the Platinum trim, where it’s standard. The Grand Highlander is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Of note, there’s also a Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, which we <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/grand-highlander-hybrid/">review separately</a>. Its base hybrid powertrain maximizes efficiency, returning up to 36 mpg combined, while the Hybrid MAX powertrain is more about performance, generating 362 hp.
<h3>3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
Toyota’s new-vehicle warranty conforms to the class norms of three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first, with powertrains covered for five years or 60,000 miles. Toyota also includes free scheduled maintenance over the first two years or 25,000 miles. We caution buyers, however, not to overweigh free maintenance plans. There just isn’t much scheduled maintenance in the first two years or 25,000 miles of new car ownership, so it’s not much of a savings.
<h3>Safety</h3>
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NHTSA</a>) has given the Grand Highlander its top 5-Star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IIHS</a>) has given it mixed scores in what tests it has performed. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard across the board. It bundles advanced safety tech like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Following a few small updates for 2025, there are no notable changes to the non-hybrid version of the Toyota Grand Highlander for the 2026 model year.

2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

Scott Hinderer is an award-winning copy editor. Before joining Cox Automotive in 2022, he built a 15-year career in print and digital journalism. His diverse résumé brings a broad perspective and commitment to accuracy to Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book that enrich the reader experience. Scott has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Salisbury University.

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